Photo: Contiki
If you’re a university student who loves to travel, it can be challenging to focus on coursework when you’re always daydreaming about the next adventure. But, satisfying that pesky little travel bug, without losing your concentration, is easier than you might think…
Here are 9 simple ways to cure that travel bug and see the world while acing your classes.
1. Study a semester abroad
I’ve never heard a university student say “I regretted my semester abroad.” And neither will you. Head to the Exchange Office and find out where in the world you can study. Save up your dollars, book that flight, and soon you’ll be studying for exams at an exotic location and attending lectures on a new campus. When you’re not busy with academics, there’s plenty of time to explore your host institution and country.
Somewhere in the US? Attend a College football game. On exchange in Australia? Grab your beach bag and head to the ocean. Studying a semester abroad is guaranteed to bring you cherished memories, and lifelong friends. Moreover, it can be a huge green flag to future employers because it demonstrates global thinking, adaptability and courage.
Image source:Contiki
2. Sign up for an overseas internship
Every university student should do an overseas internship. Why? Because it’s a fantastic way to try a career path as well as live in another country. Although these opportunities are typically unpaid, experience working in another country can be a great addition to your CV and may eventually lead to a paid position after graduating from university.
3. Enrol in relevant electives at university
Is it time to enrol in new classes? Find out what travel-related electives your university has on offer. Are you interested in learning about the tourism industry? Take a course in hotel management. Or maybe you’ve always been passionate about global politics… take a seminar on international relations. And if you’ve always wanted to be a travel writer and see your work published on six-two (wink, wink), keep your eye out for a writing class to hone the editorial craft.
Pursuing such electives is a convenient and unique way to combine your passion for travel with your university education. Furthermore, they’re a great opportunity to diversify your degree, try something outside your comfort zone and meet other university students who love to travel!
Image source:Contiki
4. Explore your local area with another university student
Sometimes the best experiences are around the corner from where you live…or in this case, study. Thus, do some research into your neighbourhood to see what bucket list activities there are to try. This might include restaurants and cafes to dine in with friends, hikes to challenge yourself, or markets to visit and support. Talk to other university students to find out the best places to visit and invite them along.
5. Plan a study staycation
Are you in dire need of a mid-semester getaway but can’t abandon your assignments? Most universities won’t hold classes over the weekend or on public holidays, so take advantage of this free time by holidaying somewhere nearby (you can check our Hack the Leave calendars to see when your best opportunities will be!).
On the Gold Coast? Head down to Byron Bay and take notes on the beach. In London? Catch the train to Cambridge and set yourself up in a cute cafe where you can study and people-watch. Studying in Paris? Checkout nearby farm stays in the French countryside. If you manage your time effectively and make a plan, you can do plenty of exploring without sacrificing the quality of your university work.
Image source:Contiki
6. Cook your favourite international dishes for an energy boost
The life of a university student can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming at times, therefore it’s paramount to practice healthy habits. This includes eating delicious and nutritious meals. If you’re feeling peckish, take to the internet or a good old-fashioned cookbook to find an international meal you can try cooking solo or with friends.
This could be anything from pasta to sushi to paella, creme brûlée or a simple American cheeseburger. If you have no spare time to prepare yourself a meal, research local eateries that specialise in international cuisines.
7. Hang out with international students at your university
Travelling and studying both offer you the chance to engage with different people from a variety of backgrounds (kind of like going on a Contiki!). Hostel common rooms are no stranger to vibrant conversations spoken in every language. Similarly, a university campus can be home to students and professors from near and far.
Reach out to some of the international students, or students on an exchange semester, and offer to show them around your local area while you learn about their hometown. Keep an eye out for campus events and gatherings where you can meet other university students (slash future travel buddies)!
Image source:Contiki
8. Always have a holiday planned for your semester break
The best way to stay motivated when you’re struggling at university is to have something exciting to look forward to at the end of the semester. Find some time early on, before the study load gets too hectic, and plan a holiday for when your classes are over. This could be a short getaway, a road trip with friends and family, or a jam-packed Contiki tour somewhere in the world.
9. Take a gap year
Alternatively, you might consider deferring a semester of your studies to take a gap year. Although they are traditionally taken between high school and university, pursuing a gap year mid-degree might be the perfect way to reset if you’re feeling sluggish and burnt out by your academic commitments. A gap year can be an opportunity to work, travel or volunteer but also a chance to reevaluate your academic and professional goals away from the classroom. Not sure where to go or what to do? Check out Contiki’s gap year travel options here.
